European Commission launches gender equality strategy 2026-2030
The European Commission has presented its new gender equality strategy for 2026 to 2030 which tackles several challenges faced by women in rural areas.
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The gender equality strategy 2026-2030 builds on the achievements of its 2020-2025 predecessor and turns the objectives of the 2025 Roadmap for Women’s Rights into concrete actions.
The strategy aims to empower women and girls, engage men and boys, oppose any backtracking on fundamental rights and accelerate progress towards a truly gender-equal Europe.
It will reinforce key EU actions, address emerging challenges and strengthen implementation of existing legislation and policies through eight principles:
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Continuing the fight against gender-based violence
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Promoting the highest standards of physical and mental health
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Tackling the gender pay and pension gaps
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Ensuring work-life balance and gender equality in care
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Fostering equal employment opportunities and adequate working conditions
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Providing high-quality and inclusive education and training
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Taking further steps to support women’s equal and safe participation in politics
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Promoting institutional mechanisms that deliver on gender equality.
The strategy can be effectively adapted to rural communities. These communities recognise that women play an essential role in the sustainable development of rural areas. However, they face several gender-specific barriers including limited access to quality employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, land and decision-making power.
The strategy recognises that gender inequalities significantly impact access to healthcare and that intersecting inequalities worsen barriers to healthcare access and can lead to discrimination in treatment in rural and remote areas.
It also recognises that the gender employment gap is particularly pronounced for women in rural areas. EU actions aimed at tackling this issue include the recent launch of the Women in Farming Platform, which seeks to strengthen women’s engagement and equal opportunities in agriculture.
Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on women and join the dedicated Community Group.